Psalms 129:5 Meaning and Explanation
“Let them all be confounded and turned back that hate Zion.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The psalmist prays for the shame and defeat of those who oppose Zion.
The Context of Psalms 129:5
Prayer for the divine reversal of enemies' fortune and shame.
What Does Psalms 129:5 Mean?
This prayer for judgment shifts perspective from Israel's past suffering to the enemies' future. 'Confounded' means brought to shame, stripped of boasting or victory; 'turned back' suggests retreat and failure. The prayer is not for total annihilation but for enemies to be disgraced and forced to withdraw their assault, inverting the previous image of plowers upon the back.
Hatred of Zion becomes the focal point—enemies are identified by their opposition to God's dwelling place and people. The psalmist invokes God's justice, trusting that those who persist in hostility will face divine recompense. This confidence in eventual divine vindication undergirds the entire psalm's resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 129:5
What does Psalms 129:5 mean?
The psalmist prays for the shame and defeat of those who oppose Zion.
What is the context of Psalms 129:5?
Prayer for the divine reversal of enemies' fortune and shame.